We need iodine for metabolism, the nervous system, cognitive function, and the immune system. In addition, iodine is essential for a child’s growth and development. However, although table salt and bakery bread are fortified with iodine in Denmark and many other countries, iodine deficiency remains a widespread health problem and is becoming more common as the number of vegetarians and vegans increases. Iodine deficiency increases the risk of goiter, an underactive thyroid, reduced resistance to infection, impaired fertility, and breast cancer. Pregnant women who are deficient in iodine are at risk of fetal abnormalities, while children who are deficient in iodine are at risk of intellectual disability or stunted growth. On the other hand, we must also avoid getting too much iodine, as excessive intake can cause health problems as well, according to a new review article published in Nutrients.

Most of the body’s cells and tissues have receptors for vitamin D, including those in the brain and nervous system. A study from Emory University in the United States suggests that older adults who take a high daily dose of vitamin D perform 13 percent better on cognitive tests compared with older adults who do not take a high daily supplement. The researchers therefore assume that high-dose vitamin D supplementation may help reduce early stages of cognitive decline, early signs of dementia, and sleep problems.

Type 2 diabetes is often complicated by diabetic neuropathy, an insidious condition associated with poor circulation, increased morbidity, and, in the worst cases, amputation. Diet and lifestyle play an important role in the development of the disease, which is caused by disturbances in the metabolism of blood sugar and fats. New research now suggests that supplementation with organic selenium yeast can significantly improve insulin sensitivity, blood sugar control, and quality of life in patients with diabetic neuropathy. This is shown in a placebo-controlled study published in the European Journal of Nutrition.

It is well known that excess abdominal fat increases the risk of chronic inflammation, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure. The combination of excess abdominal fat and vitamin D deficiency appears to further increase the risk of chronic disease and premature death in people over the age of 50, as shown by a study published in Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism. Here, the researchers describe how vitamin D protects against premature death. It may therefore be beneficial for your health to check whether your waist circumference is within an appropriate range and whether your blood vitamin D level is optimal throughout the year.

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections are very common. HSV-1 typically causes cold sores on the lips, whereas HSV-2 typically causes painful blisters and sores on the genitals, buttocks, or thighs. HSV is transmitted through direct contact, and after the initial outbreak, the virus remains dormant in nerve cells for the rest of a person's life. However, many people experience recurring outbreaks. In severe cases, serious complications can also occur. A population-based study published in BMC Infectious Diseases suggests, however, that moderate zinc intake may have a protective effect.

If a woman gives birth before 37 weeks of pregnancy, the baby is considered premature. The earlier the baby is born, the greater the risk of complications, death, or serious long-term consequences. As is well known, diet during pregnancy is highly important, and it now appears that a deficiency of vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA and DHA increases the risk of preterm birth. This is demonstrated by a large Chinese study in which the researchers also describe the role these nutrients play during pregnancy. Pregnant women should therefore pay attention to getting enough vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids while at the same time avoiding excessive intake of vitamin A and/or omega-6 fatty acids.

The most common type of thyroid cancer is called papillary thyroid carcinoma. Although the prognosis is good, many patients experience a reduced quality of life. Vitamin D deficiency also appears to be widespread among patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma, contributing to chronic fatigue, muscle weakness, weight gain, and other symptoms. Vitamin D supplementation, however, appears to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life, according to a study published in Frontiers in Nutrition. It should be noted, however, that many people need higher doses of supplements to optimize their blood levels of vitamin D.

The number of cancer cases is rising alarmingly, and although treatments have improved, cancer survivors still face an increased risk of premature death for a number of reasons. A higher intake of omega-3 fatty acids, however, appears to be associated with longer life, according to a population-based study published in Nutrition Research Journal. The researchers describe how the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA from fatty fish and fish oil not only affect cancer patients’ long-term survival but may also play a role in cancer prevention through various biological mechanisms.

Type 2 diabetes is spreading like an epidemic. Many people who struggle with weight gain and blood sugar also have prediabetes, often without knowing it.
Diet and lifestyle play a major role, and there is also evidence that magnesium supplementation can improve blood sugar and lipid profiles in adults with prediabetes. This is shown by a large meta-analysis published in the Journal of Diabetes & Metabolic Disorders. In the long term, it may be beneficial to get more magnesium through a whole-food, plant-rich diet while also getting enough protein and healthy fats to regulate blood sugar and weight.